After my graduation from university this year, I needed a new project. I wanted to buy a gravel bike but couldn't accept the high prices. So, I decided to restore an old MTB (€140). I chose a Marin Bear Valley from 1993 as the base.
I gave it a new paint job and replaced all the old parts with new ones (sometimes I think I should have kept the original painting). I had planned to go to New Zealand to skip the German winter. During the process of building the bike, I got the idea to take my bike with me. So, I bought a lot of bikepacking gear to make my bike suit the needs for a ca. 2,500 km tour through New Zealand. My trip begins at the end of November.
Components Overview:
- Tiagra 4700 Brifters
- GRX RD-RX812
- Sunrace cassette (11-42T)
- Shimano Deore Crank (30T)
- Ryde Zac 2000 wheelset
- Rene Herse Humptulips Ridge TC (26" x 2.3")
- Rene Herse TPU Tubes with sealant
- Nitto MTC-22 quill stem
- Ritchey cockpit
Feel free to share your thoughts on my bike and my plans.
P.S. Thanks to all the people here that helped me during the process!
by TrumpfLP
3 Comments
That’s a once in a lifetime trip you’re going to do.
Beautiful work.
How expensive is it to take your bike on the other side of the world ? If you’re willing to share
Nice bike and good luck with the trip. I’m commenting because I have a 1992 Bear Valley and am planning to do the same. Not New Zealand but start off in Ireland and then Europe. Although I would love to see New Zealand too:)
For me those handlebars would be way too low to keep cycling long distances. Obviously everyone is different but have you tried long distances with them? How do they feel?
I was also going to respray my frame but decided against it. There is a bit of surface rust, a lot actually but I will get rid of it and touch up the paint, maybe lacquer it. But if you have any regrets you can always get more decals. I don’t think you will though after a trip like that.
Will you be documenting your progress? Youtube, social media? I’d be very interested in seeing how you get on.
I’m undecided about a x1 drivetrain. To me it looks great and so much simpler, i don’t think I’d really miss the front mech but I’ve read a lot recently how people can’t find the right gear these days.
I have a Brooks saddle too, most important thing:)
Viel Glück mit der Reise! Ich hoffe, ein paar Photos oder Videos zu sehen!
